CHRISTMAS '08

New Christmas jammies!

Christmas has come and gone for yet another year. This was one for the memory books. We had our second green Christmas and although it is hard to be away from family at this time of year we are soaking in the sun and the atmosphere as much as possible. Madi was the first to wake up in the morning and waited patiently in her room as she was told. We finally woke up Rylee and although she wasn't sure what was happening at first she seemed to really take in all the excitement. First everyone ran to their stocking and piles of gifts to see what Santa had given them. At our house Santa and I have a deal. He brings three gifts to each of us to help us remember Christ and the three gifts he was given by the wise men so long ago. Each of these gifts represents something: gold - something you want, muir - something you need, and frankincense - something educational.

Madi's Santa pressies:

gold - beados

muir - school supplies (lunch box, colored pencils, and a pencil case)

frankincense - another set of fairy books

Cooper's Santa pressies:

gold - two remote control cars

muir - school supplies (lunch box, crayons, pencils, and a pencil case)

frankincense - one story book and a book of mazes for the kid who loves mazes!

Rylee's Santa pressies:

gold - a play kitchen

muir - a cover up for the beach

frankincense - two picture books

Not only that but there stockings are stuffed with little goodies as well. These are my favorite pictures from the morning. Santa always leaves an orange and an apple in the toe of the stocking - you would have thought they struck gold when they all got to that point.

Then we got to the wrapped presents under the tree. Madi got to play Santa's elf this year and wear the new hat I bought just for the occasion (a new tradition I think!). She handed out all the presents and we all watched what was opened. Rylee got a little overkill and towards the end didn't want to open any more just wanted to play with what she got. All in all it was a wonderful morning.

We then got ready and headed to the beach. We were a bit nervous as the morning was full of clouds, but decided to go for it anyway. By the time we got to the beach it was fabulous!!! We went with some good friends of ours, the James family. They are from Canada so it is a green Christmas for them as well. Jackie's mom, sister, and step-father were in town so we all decided the beach would be a fun place to spend our afternoon. It was the perfect afternoon. When we got into the car I told Kev that it was really hard to remember that it was actually Christmas. Unfortunately I didn't get any pictures to prove that we actually went to the beach. I didn't want to bring my good camera for fear of getting sand in it and ruining it forever, so I grabbed the point and shoot. However, when I pulled it out at the beach the batteries were dead. I took a few pictures with Jackie's camera so hopefully I will get those soon and can post some.

After spending a long time at the beach we all met up at our house for a really late Christmas dinner. We had the traditional dinner this year complete with ham and baked potatoes. It was so delicious. We had great company all day which made up for not being around family and truly you can't beat going to the beach on Christmas day. Memories to last a lifetime!!!

Today is boxing day - so as Kev says we are practicing up on our boxing moves! We spent the morning talking with family on the web cam and were shown the signs of a white Christmas - a couple feet of snow. It sure makes for a nice Christmas, but a cold and icy one as well. We hope that you all had a wonderful Christmas as well! Remember if you want to go to the beach on Christmas you can always come and visit next year!!!